Written by Colin Milner, CEO, International Council on Active Aging
In its World Report on Ageing and Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) “outlines a framework for action to foster Healthy Ageing built around the new concept of functional ability. Making these investments,” WHO says, “will have valuable social and economic returns, both in terms of health and wellbeing of older people and in enabling their on-going participation in society.”…
By ICAA
What do we know about physical activity among older adults?
For starters, physical activity is a powerful means to help prevent age-related loss of function, reduce the risk of chronic disease, improve mental and physical health, and support quality of life.
Older adults who exercise can:
Reduce their risk of heart disease, some cancers, hypertension, high cholesterol and obesity; Mediate hypertension, diabetes and depression; Lower their risk of falls and injury; And improve their sleep.The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that older adults get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise per week.…
By ICAA
In today’s society, we’re flooded with negative messages and images about what it means to age and to be an older person. We are constantly exposed to stereotypes that show older adults through a lens of decline and diminished value, emphasizing the “burdens” of growing old. In North America, we seldom hear about the value of older adults, or the rich, untapped potential of an aging population.…
By ICAA
Research published in the British scientific journal Age and Ageing found that older adults are highly knowledgeable about the health benefits of physical activity, yet many remain inactive due to the many barriers to participation. This article examines these barriers and suggests ways in which you and your organization can reduce or eliminate their impact on the physical activity levels of older adults.…